CEREMONY OF RAISING Questions Before Raising The Lodge is open in the Second Degree. WM – requests FCs other than the Candidate to withdraw and indicates with appropriate words that the next business is to raise Bro. ……… Can – stands. SD – goes to Can, takes him by the r h, leads him to position N of SW’s ped, both facing E and releases hand. WM – Brethren, Bro. …..., is this evening a Candidate to be raised to the Third Degree, but it is first requisite that he gives proofs of proficiency in the Second.  I shall therefore proceed to put the necessary questions – to Can – How were you prepared to be passed to the Second Degree? SD – must be prepared, if necessary, to prompt Can. Candidate – In a manner somewhat similar to the former, save that in this Degree I was not hoodwinked, my left arm, breast and right knee were made bare and my left heel was slip shod. WM – On what were you admitted? Candidate – The Sq. WM – What is a Sq? Candidate – An angle of 90 degrees or the fourth part of a circle. WM – What are the peculiar objects of research in this Degree? Candidate – The hidden mysteries of Nature and Science. WM – As it is the hope of reward that sweetens labour, where did our ancient Brethren go to receive their wages? Candidate – Into the middle chamber of KST. WM – How did they receive them? Candidate – Without scruple or diffidence. WM – Why in this peculiar manner? Candidate – Without scruple, well knowing they were justly entitled to them, without diffidence, from the great reliance they placed on the integrity of their employers in those days. WM – What were the names of the two great pillars which were placed at the porchway or entrance of KST? Candidate – That on the left was called …., and that on the right …… WM – What are their separate and conjoint significations? Candidate – The former denotes in ……, the latter to ……. ; and when conjoined …….. , for God said, ‘In …… I will establish this Mine house to stand firm for ever.’ WM – These are the usual questions; I will put others if any Brother wishes me to do so. SD – conducts Can by r h direct to N side of WM’s ped and a convenient distance from it, both facing S and releases h. WM – Do you pledge your honour as a man and your fidelity as a Craftsman that you will steadily persevere through the ceremony of being raised to the sublime Degree of a MM? SD – prompting Can aloud – I do (Can repeats). WM – Do you likewise pledge yourself that you will conceal what I shall now impart to you with the same strict caution as the other secrets in Masonry? SD – prompting Can aloud – I do (Can repeats). WM – Then I will entrust you with a test of merit, which is a p g and p w leading to the Degree to which you seek to be admitted – rises, faces Can, and takes the latter’s r h in his own r h and holds it – The p g is given – adjusts p g by placing Can’s t in position before placing his own – by a distinct pressure of the thumb between the second and third joints of the hand. – This p g demands a p w, which is …… …… SD – prompting Can, speaks word aloud (Can repeats). WM - ………… was the first a in ms.  The import of the word is …… …… You must be particularly careful to remember this word as without it you cannot gain admission into a Lodge in a superior Degree.  Pass, …… ….. – restores Can’s r h to l h of SD and sits. SD – guiding Can, makes a clockwise wheel and conducts him to N of SW’s ped, squaring the Lodge.  Here he wheels Can clockwise so as to face E and releases hand. SD – to Can aloud – Salute the WM as a FC, first as an EA – instructs Can in a whisper to take Sp, give EA Sn and cut it, take another Sp, give FC Sn and cut it. SD – takes Can by r h, makes anti-clockwise wheel with Can and conducts him to the door. IG – goes to door in front of SD and opens it, closing it again when Can has gone out. IG and SD – return to seats. The Raising WM – conducts Opening the Lodge in the Third Degree or Resumes in that Degree whichever is appropriate, but with the following differences: WM – MM knocks quietly (ie, given so as to be audible only in the Lodge). SW – MM knocks quietly, JW – MM knocks quietly. IG – gives knocks by r h on l sleeve, standing in his place. (No knocks are given on door by either IG or Tyler.) SD and JD – lay down and open s (TB and WTs box to be moved W towards SW’s ped as required). Tyler – prepares Can including FC badge and Ceremony proceeds:- Tyler – gives FC knocks on door.  This informs Lodge that a Can for Raising is at the door of the Lodge. IG – rises in front of his chair, Sp and MM P Sn – Bro. JW, there is a report – holds Sn. JW – no knocks, rises, Sp and MM p Sn – WM, there is a report – holds Sn. WM – Bro. JW, inquire who wants admission. JW – cuts Sn and recover, and sits – Bro. IG, see who wants admission. IG – cuts Sn and recovers, goes to door, opens it, checks that Can is properly prepared, and remains on threshold with hand on door handle (Colloquy between IG and Tyler should be audible throughout the Lodge). IG – to Tyler – Whom have you there? Tyler – Bro. (Names Can), who has been regularly Initiated into Freemasonry, Passed to the Degree of a FC, and has made such further progress as he hopes will entitle him to be raised to the sublime Degree of a MM, for which ceremony he is properly prepared. IG – How does he hope to obtain the privileges of the Third Degree? Tyler – By the help of God, the united aid of the Sq and Cs and the benefit of a p w. IG – Is he in possession of the p w? Tyler – Will you prove him? IG – receives p g and p w from Can (Tyler prompts if necessary). IG – Halt, while I report to the WM – closes door, returns to position in front of his chair, Sp and MM P Sn which he holds. IG – WM, Bro. (Names Can), who has been regularly Initiated into Freemasonry, Passed to the Degree of a FC, and has made such further progress as he hopes will entitle him to be Raised to the sublime Degree of a MM, for which ceremony he is properly prepared. WM – How does he hope to obtain the privileges of the Third Degree? IG – By the help of God, the united aid of the Sq and Cs, and the benefit of a p w. WM – We acknowledge the powerful aid by which he seeks admission; do you, Bro. IG vouch that he is in possession of the p w? IG – I do, WM. WM – Then let him be admitted in due form. IG – cuts Sn and recovers. WM – Bro. Deacons. SD – squares Lodge to JD position.  SD and JD proceed to N of SW’s ped. JD places kneeling stool in position. IG – takes Cs and goes to door followed by JD and SD, SD on left. It is at this point that all lights except that of WM are extinguished. IG – opens door, retaining hold on it as before, applies extended Cs to both bs of Can and then raises Cs above his head to show that he has so applied them. SD – with l h takes Can by r h (JD on Can’s l) leads him to kneeling stool, two short paces from it and releases hand.  All three stand facing E. IG – after Can is admitted closes door and resumes seat. SD – to Can – Advance as a FC, first as an EA – ensures that Can takes Sp and gives and cuts EA Sn, then takes second Sp and gives and cuts FC Sn. WM – Let the Can kneel while the blessing of Heaven is invoked on what we are about to do. SD – ensures Can kneels and gives Sn of R. WM – one knock, SW – one knock, JW – one knock. SD and JD – hold wands in l h, cross them over head of Can and give Sn of R ALL – stand with Sn of R. Prayer Chaplain – Almighty and Eternal God, Architect and Ruler of the Universe, at Whose creative fiat all things first were made, we, the frail creatures of Thy providence humbly implore thee to pour down on this convocation assembled in Thy Holy Name the continual dew of thy blessing.  Especially, we beseech Thee to impart Thy grace to this Thy servant, who offers himself a Candidate to partake with us the mysterious secrets of a MM.  Endue him with such fortitude that in the hour of trial he fail not, but that, passing safely under Thy protection through the valley of the shadow of death, he may finally rise from the tomb of transgression, to shine as the stars for ever and ever. ALL – So mote it be – drop Sn SD and JD – uncross wands and hold them again in r h. WM – Let the Candidate rise (he does so). WM – sits. ALL – (except SD, JD and Can) sit. JD – draws kneeling stool aside to his left out of the way of SD and Can. SD – takes Can’s r h firmly, instructs him in a whisper to step off with l f and leads Can up N towards E part of Lodge. JD – follows close behind Can and continues to do so for complete perambulation. IG – replaces kneeling stool in normal position and sits. SD – leads Can to N E corner where they square Lodge (SD should ensure that when squaring sufficient space is left for JD behind SD and Can); SD instructs Can to step off with l f and proceeds with him to point in front of WM’s ped, halts there and releases hand. SD – to Can – Salute the WM as a Mason – ensures Can takes Sp and gives and cuts EA Sn. SD – takes Can by r h, instructs him to step off with l f and leads him via S E corner which is squared to E side of JW’s ped where they stand parallel to ped and a convenient distance from it.  Releases hand. JD – stands as nearly behind Can as is possible. SD – Advance to the JW as such, showing the Sn and communicating the Tn and Wd – ensures Can takes Sp and gives and cuts EA Sn. JW – Have you anything to communicate? SD – prompting Can aloud – I have (Can repeats). JW – rises, faces Can with Sp and offers hand. SD – places r h of Can in that of JW and adjusts EA g from above. JW – gives g after SD has adjusted Can’s r r and retains g throughout the whole of the colloquy – What is this? SD – prompting Can aloud – The G or Tn of an EA FM (Can repeats). JW – What does it demand? SD – prompting Can aloud – A word (Can repeats). JW – Give me that word freely and at length. SD – prompting Can aloud - ……. (Can repeats). JW – Pass …… - replaces Can’s r h in l h of SD and sits. SD – leads Can onto floor of Lodge, instructs him to step off with l f and leads him via S W corner, which is squared, to a point in front of SW’s ped, halts and releases hand. SD – Salute the SW as a Mason – ensures Can takes Sp with EA SN and cuts it. SD – takes Can’s r h, instructs him to step off with l f, leads him to N W corner of Lodge, which is squared, and proceeds with Can towards E end of Lodge to perambulate a second time. JD – continues to follow close behind Can on this perambulation. SD – leads Can to N E corner of Lodge, which is squared, and on to a point in front of WM’s ped, halts and releases hand. SD – Salute the WM as a FC – ensures Can takes Sp, gives FC Sn and cuts it. SD – takes Can’s r h, instructs him to step off with l f and leads him via S E corner, which is squared, to a point in front of JW’s ped, halts and releases hand. SD – to Can – Salute the JW as a FC – ensures Can takes Sp, gives FC Sn and cuts it. SD – takes Can’s r h, instructs him to step off with l f and leads him via S W corner, which is squared, to S side of SW’s ped where they stand parallel to ped and a convenient distance from it. Releases hand. JD – stands as nearly behind Can as possible. SD – Advance to the SW as such, showing the Sn and communicating the Tn and Wd of that Degree – ensures Can takes Sp, gives FC Sn and cuts it. SW – Have you anything to communicate? SD – prompting Can aloud – I have (Can repeats). SW – rises, faces Can with Sp and offers hand. SD – places r h of Can in that of SW and adjusts FC g from above. SW – gives g after SD has adjusted Can’s r t and retains g throughout the whole of the colloquy. SW – What is this? SD – prompting Can aloud – The G or Tn of a FC FM (Can repeats). SW – What does it demand? SD – prompting Can aloud – A word (Can repeats). SW – Give me that word, freely and at length. SD – prompting Can aloud - ……. (Can repeats). SW – Pass ……. – replaces Can’s r h in l h of SD and sits. SD – takes Can’s r h and leads him to floor of Lodge, instructs him to step off with l f and leads him to N of SW’s ped, wheels clockwise so that both face WM and releases hand. JD – follows Can until SD and Can face WM, then passes behind them and stands on l of Can so that all three are in line facing E. WM – one knock, SW – one knock, JW – one knock. WM – The Brethren will take notice that Bro ……, who has been regularly initiated into Freemasonry and passed to the Degree of a FC, is about to pass in view before them, to show that he is the Candidate properly prepared to be raised to the sublime Degree of a MM. SD – takes Can’s l h, instructs him to step off with l f and leads him up N side of Lodge to perambulate a third time. JD – falls in behind Can as on previous perambulations and again continues to follow close behind Can. SD – leads Can to N E corner, which is squared, and proceeds to point in front of WM’s ped, halts and releases hand. SD – Salute the WM as a FC – ensures Can does so. SD – takes Can’s r h, continues perambulation, squaring S E corner, halts in front of JW’s ped and releases hand. SD - Salute the JW as a FC – ensures Can does so. SD – takes Can’s r h, instructs him to step off with l f and continues perambulation, squaring S W corner, to S of SW’s ped, standing parallel to ped and a convenient distance from it. Releases hand. SD – Advance to the SW as such, showing the Sn and communicating the p g and p w you received from the WM previously to leaving the Lodge – ensures Can takes Sp, gives and cuts FC Sn. SW – Have you anything to communicate? SD – prompting Can aloud – I have (Can repeats). SW – rises, faces Can and offers hand. SD – places Can’s r h in that of SW and, with l h adjusts p g from above. SW – gives p g after SD has adjusted Can’s r t and retains p g throughout colloquy. SW – What is this? SD – prompting Can aloud – The p g leading from the Second to the Third Degree (Can repeats). SW – What does this p g demand? SD – prompting Can aloud – A p w (Can repeats). SW – Give me that p w. SD – prompting Can aloud - …… …… (Can repeats). SW – What was …… ……? SD – prompting Can aloud – The first a in ms (Can repeats). SW – The import of the word? SD – prompting Can aloud - …… ……  (Can repeats). SW – Pass, …… …… - replaces Can’s r h in l h of SD and remains standing. SD – takes Can’s r h and leads him onto floor of Lodge, instructs him to step off with l f and leads him to N side of SW’s ped.  Here he makes an anti-clockwise wheel and places Can’s r h in l h of SW; he lines up on l of Can and ensures that both are facing E. JD – follows Can and as SD and Can wheel continues on and takes up position on l of SD so that all three are in line, facing E. SW – holding up Can’s r h, Sp and MM P Sn – WM, I present to you Bro. …….., a Can properly prepared to be raised to the Third Degree – maintains Sn and continues to hold Can’s r h. WM – Bro. SW, you will direct the Ds to instruct the Can to advance to the E by the proper steps. SW – cuts Sn and recovers, replaces Can’s r h in l h of SD and sits. SD – takes up position on r of Can, ensures that both face E and releases hand. JD – remains in position, now on l of Can. SW – Bro. Deacons, it is the WM’s command that you instruct the Can to advance to the E by the proper steps. SD – takes Can’s r h, instructs him to step off with l f and leads him up N side of Lodge to a convenient position opposite s, halts and turns with him to face S. JD – follows close behind Can and when SD halts passes behind Can and turns S so that all three are in line. SD – leaves Can and goes, by passing outside W end of s, to far side of s from Can, turns and halts facing him. SD – to Can – The method of advancing from W to E in this Degree is by seven steps, the first three as if stepping over a g.  For your information I will go through them, and you will afterwards copy me. SD – goes to hd or W end of g and stands facing E, ft formed in a square, h to h, l f pointing E and r f pointing S.  Commencing with l f he takes a step across the g in a N E direction, the l f being placed at the N side of the g about one third of the latter’s length and pointing N.  The step is completed by bringing the r f up to the l f, h to h in the form of a square with the r f pointing E.  Commencing with the r f, he takes a second step across the g in a S E direction, the r f being placed at the S side of the g about two thirds of the latter’s length and pointing S.  This step is completed by bringing the l f up to the r f, h to h in the form of a square, the l f pointing E.  Commencing with the l f he takes a third step to the foot or E end of the g, the l f pointing E.  The step is completed by bringing up the r f to the l f, h to h in the form of a square and r f pointing S.  Commencing with the l f he takes four steps in a direction due E, and then finishes in front of WM’s ped with the ft h to h in the form of a square, l f pointing N E and r f pointing S E. SD – then returns to Can, going via the S and W of the s, takes him by the r h, places him in position at the W end of the g and keeping ahead of him, on the S side of the g, instructs him in a whisper how to take steps, pointing out position for Can’s ft.  He does not retain hand clasp.  When Can reaches E end of g at third step, SD walks beside him for last four steps and remains on his r in front of WM’s ped. JD – remains stationary while Can is taking first three steps and then moves so as to arrive at WM’s ped simultaneously with SD and Can and takes position on l of Can that all three are in line facing E. WM – It is but fair to inform you that a more serious trial of your fortitude and fidelity and a more solemn Obl await you.  Are you prepared to meet them as you ought? Candidate – I am (If Can doors not answer, SD should whisper to him ‘Answer’). WM – Then you will kneel on both knees, place both hands on the VSL (Can does so).  WM ensures Can does not place a hand on the Sq and Cs. WM – one knock, SW – one knock, JW – one knock. ALL – rise with Sp and MM P Sn. SD and JD – hold wands in l h, cross them over head of Can, Sp and MM P Sn. WM – Repeat your name at length, and say after me: I, …… ……. – Can gives name in full – in the presence of the Most High, and of this worthy and worshipful Lodge of MMs, duly constituted, regularly assembled, and properly dedicated, of my own free will and accord, do hereby – with l h touches one or both hands of Can – and hereon – with l h touches VSL – most solemnly promise and swear that I will always h (pronounced hail), conceal, and never reveal any or either of the secrets and mysteries of or belonging to the Degree of a MM to anyone in the world, unless it be to him or them to whom the same may justly and lawfully belong, and not even to him mor them until after due trial, strict examination, or full conviction that he or they are worthy of that confidence, or in the body of a MMs Lodge duly opened on the C. I further solemnly pledge myself to adhere to the principles of the Sq and Cs, answer and obey all lawful signs, and summonses sent to me from a MMs Lodge, if within the length of my cable tow, and plead no excuse, except sickness or the pressing emergencies of my own public or private avocations.   I further solemnly engage myself to maintain and uphold the F P O F in act as well as in word:  that my hand, given to a MM, shall be a sure pledge of brotherhood; that my feet shall travel through dangers and difficulties to unite with his in forming a column of mutual defence and support; that the posture of my daily supplications shall remind me of his wants, dispose my heart to succour his weakness and relieve his necessities, so far as may fairly be done without detriment to myself or connections; that my breast shall be the sacred repository of his secrets when entrusted to my care – murder, treason, felony, and all other offences contrary to the laws of God and the ordinances of the realm being at all times most especially excepted. And finally, I will maintain a MM’s honour and carefully preserve it as my own:  I will not injure him myself, or knowingly suffer it to be done by others if in my power to prevent it, but, on the contrary, will boldly repel the slanderer of his good name, and most strictly respect the chastity of those nearest and dearest to him, in the persons of his wife, his sister and his child All these points I solemnly swear to observe, without evasion, equivocation or mental reservation of any kind. So help me the Most High, and keep me steadfast in this my solemn Obl of a MM. WM – As a pledge of your fidelity, and to render this binding as a solemn Obl for as long as you shall live, you will seal it with your lips thrice on the VSL (Can does so). SD – if necessary, instructs in a whisper. ALL – cut P Sn to recovery and drop hand. SD and JD – lower wands to r h. WM – Let me once more call your attention to the position of the Sq and Cs.  When you were made an EA both points were hid; in the Second Degree one was disclosed; in this the whole is exhibited implying that you are now at liberty to work with both those points in order to render the circle of your Masonic duties complete. WM – takes Can’s r h from VSL with his r h – Rise newly obligated MM – restores Can’s r h to SD. WM – sits. ALL – (except SD, JD and Can) sit. SD and JD – assisting Can, if necessary by taking his hands, step backwards with him until standing at foot of g and there halt in line still facing E. The Exhortation WM - Having entered upon the SO of a MM, you are now entitled to demand that last and greatest trial by which alone you can be admitted to a participation of the secrets of this Degree; but it is first my duty to call your attention to a retrospect of those degrees in Freemasonry through which you have already passed, that you may better be enabled to distinguish and appreciate the connection of our whole system, and the relative dependency of its several parts. Your admission among Masons in a state of helpless indigence was an emblematical representation of the entrance of all men on this, their mortal existence.  It inculcated the useful lessons of natural equality and mutual dependence; it instructed you in the active principles of universal beneficence and charity, to seek the solace of your own distress by extending relief and consolation to your fellow creatures in the hour of their affliction.  Above all, it taught you to bend with humility and resignation to the will of the Great Architect of the Universe; to dedicate your heart, thus purified from every baneful and malignant passion, fitted only for the reception of truth and wisdom, to His glory and the welfare of your fellow mortals. Proceeding onwards, still guiding your progress by the principles of moral truth, you were led in the Second Degree to contemplate the intellectual faculty and to trace it from its development, through the paths of heavenly science, even to the throne of God Himself.  The secrets of Nature and the principles of intellectual truth were then unveiled to your view.  To your mind, thus modelled by virtue and science, Nature, however, presents one great and useful lesson more.  She prepares you, by contemplation, for the closing hour of existence; and when by means of that contemplation she has conducted you through the intricate windings of this mortal life, she finally instructs you how to die.  Such, my Brother, are the peculiar objects of the Third Degree in Freemasonry.  They invite you to reflect on this awful subject, and teach you to feel that, to the just and virtuous man, death has no terrors equal to the stain of falsehood and dishonour.  Of this great truth the annals of Masonry afford a glorious example in the unshaken fidelity and noble death of our Master HA, who was slain just before the completion of KST, at the construction of which he was, as no doubt you are well aware, the principal Architect.  The manner of his death was as follows. WM – summons Ws - Brother Ws. SW and JW – leave their seats; SW by N side, taking L with him; JW by W side, taking PR with him.  SW proceeds eastwards straight up the Lodge; JW waits until SW is level with him and then both advance abreast until they arrive behind the Deacons.  SW touches JD’s r shoulder and JW, simultaneously, touches SD’s l shoulder. SD and JD – take one pace outwards. SW and JW – come up in line between Deacons and Can, SW on l and JW on r of Can.  This line of five is held momentarily from N to S, facing E. SD and JD – step backwards and open s, then return to seats. JW – directs Can to cross r f over l. SW and JW – hold Can securely by his hands so that they have full control over him and he does not at any time lose his balance. WM - Fifteen FCs, of that superior class appointed to preside over the rest, finding that the work was nearly completed and that they were not in possession of the secrets of the Third Degree, conspired to obtain them by any means, even to have recourse to violence.  At the moment, however, of carrying their conspiracy into execution, twelve of the fifteen recanted; but three, of a more determined and atrocious character than the rest, persisted in their impious design, in the prosecution of which they planted themselves respectively at the E, N, and S entrances of the Temple, whither our M had retired to pay his adoration to the MH, as was his wonted custom at the hour of high twelve.  Having finished his devotions, he attempted to return by the S entrance, where he was opposed by the first of those ruffians, who, for want of other weapon, had armed himself with a heavy PR, and in a threatening manner demanded the secrets of a MM, warning him that death would be the consequence of a refusal.  Our Master, true to his Obl, answered that those secrets were known to but … in the world and that without the consent and cooperation of the other … he neither could nor would divulge them, but intimated that he had no doubt patience and industry would , in due time, entitle the worthy M to a participation of them, but that, for his  own part, he would rather suffer death than betray the sacred trust reposed in him. This answer not proving satisfactory, the ruffian aimed a violent blow at the head of our M; but being startled at the firmness of his demeaner, it missed his forehead and only glanced on his r temple (JW touches Can’s r t with PR) but with such force as to cause him to reel and sink on his l k. SW – in whisper instructs Can to k on his l k and then to regain upright position; Wardens assist and ensure Can recrosses ft. WM - Recovering from the shock he made for the N entrance where he was accosted by the second of those ruffians, to whom he gave a similar answer with undiminished firmness, when the ruffian, who was armed with a L, struck him a violent blow on the l temple (SW touches Can on l temple with L) which brought him to the ground on his r k. SW – in whisper instructs Can to k on r k and then to regain upright position; Wardens assist and ensure Can recrosses ft. WM - Finding his retreat cut off at both those pts, he staggered, faint and bleeding, to the E entrance where the third ruffian was posted, who received a similar answer to his insolent demand, for even at this trying  moment our M remained firm and unshaken, when the villain, who was armed with a heavy Ml, struck him a violent blow on the forehead (motion touching Ml to Can’s forehead) which laid him lifeless at his feet. SW and JW – lower Can backwards to supine position, with arms at sides and r f still crossed over l f. SW and JW – stand on each side of Can at head of g facing E, JW on S side. WM - The Brethren will notice that in the recent ceremony, as well as in his present situation, our Brother has been made to represent one of the brightest characters recorded in the annals of Masonry, namely HA, who lost his life in consequence of his unshaken fidelity to the sacred trust reposed in him, and I hope this will make a lasting impression on his and your minds should you ever be placed in a similar state of trial. Brother JW, you will endeavour to raise the representative of our M by the EA’s G.  JW – proceeds on r side of Can to level with his knees, steps across him with r f, lifts Can’s r h with his l h, gives EA G with his r h, slips it, and with l h gently replaces Can’s r h at his side. He returns to his former position at the head of the g. JW – Sp and MM P Sn - WM, it proves a …. – cuts Sn and recovers WM - Brother SW, you will try the FC’s. SW – proceeds on l side of Can to level with his knees, steps across him with his l f, lifts Can’s r h with his l h, gives FC G with his r h, slips it and with his l h gently replaces Can’s r h at his side.  He returns to his former position at the head of the g. SW – Sp and MM P Sn - WM, it proves a … likewise – cuts Sn and recovers. WM - Brother Ws, having both failed in your attempts, there remains a third method, by taking a more firm hold of the sinews of the hand and raising him on the F P O F, which with your assistance, I will make trial of. WM – advances to feet of Can which he uncrosses, so that heels are about six inches apart, puts his r f to Can’s r f, takes Can’s r h by MM G, and with the aid of the Wardens raises Can on the F P O F. SW – ensures Can’s l h is extended over WM’s shoulder, palm downwards in the form of a square WM - It is thus all MMs are …… from a figurative d to a reunion with the former companions of their toils – disengages -Brother Ws, resume your seats. SW and JW – return direct to seats and replace L and PR. WM – takes Can by both hands and gently moves him round clockwise so that he stands in the N facing S, places Can’s hands at his sides, steps backwards beyond the line of the g and halts there.  WM and Can are now directly facing each other. The Charge WM – to Can - Let me now beg you to observe that the Light of a MM is darkness visible, serving only to express that gloom which rests on the prospect of futurity.  It is that mysterious veil which the eye of human reason cannot penetrate, unless assisted by that Light which is from above.  Yet by even this glimmering ray, you may perceive that you stand on the very brink of the grave into which you have just figuratively descended, and which, when this transitory life shall have passed away, will again receive you into its cold bosom.  Let the emblems of mortality which lie before you (points to skull and crossed bones, which a brother illuminates with a torch) lead you to contemplate on your inevitable destiny, and guide your reflections to that most interesting of all human studies, the knowledge of yourself.  Be careful to perform your allotted task while it is yet day.  Continue to listen to the voice of Nature, which bears witness that even in this perishable frame resides a vital and immortal principle, which inspires a holy confidence that the Lord of Life will enable us to trample the King of Terrors beneath our feet, and lift our eyes to that bright Morning Star, whose rising brings peace and salvation to the faithful and obedient of the human race. WM – steps forward, takes both hands of Can, and gently moves around anti-clockwise until they have exchanged places.  Can is now in the South facing North, about three short paces from the centre line of the Lodge. WM - I cannot better reward the attention you have paid to this exhortation and charge than by entrusting you with the secrets of the Degree.  You will therefore advance to me as a FC, first as an EA - ensure Can takes Sp, gives EA Sn and cuts it, takes another Sp, gives FC Sn and cuts it – You will now take another short pace towards me with your left foot, bringing the right heel into its hollow as before.  That is the third regular step in Freemasonry, and it is in this position that the secrets of the Degree are communicated.  They consist of Signs, a Token and Word. Of the Signs, the first and second are casual, the third penal.  The first casual Sign is the Sign of Horror, and is given from the Fellow Craft sign -  Stand to order as a FC - ensures Can gives FC Sn and holds it, then himself takes Sp and gives FC Sn -  by dropping the left hand – illustrates and ensures Can copies – in this position (left arm straight down beside and slightly behind left thigh, with open palm facing back), elevating the right with with the hand inclined over the right shoulder (palm outwards, shielding the face), as if struck with horror at some dreadful and afflicting sight - illustrates as words require and ensure Can copies - The second casual Sign is called the Sign of Sympathy, and is given by bending the head forward and smiting the forehead gently with the right hand - illustrates and ensures Can copies - Place your right hand in this position (place right hand to left of navel, palm down) with the thumb extended in the form of a square - illustrates and ensure Can copies - The Penal Sign is given by drawing the hand smartly across the belly, dropping it to the side, and returning with the thumb turned towards the navel - illustrates and ensures Can copies - This is in allusion to the symbolic penalty at one time included in the Obligation in this degree, which implied that as a man of honour, a MM would rather have been severed in two – illustrates with recovery and ensures Can copies (drops hand at the end) - than improperly disclose the secrets entrusted to him.  The full penalty was that of being severed in two, the body burned to ashes, and those ashes scattered over the face of earth and water by the four cardinal winds of heaven that no trace or remembrance of so vile a wretch might longer be found among men, particularly MMs.   The Grip or Token is the first of the Five Points Of Fellowship.  They are - illustrates each with Can as words require and ensures Can's correct co-operation - hand to hand, foot to foot, knee to knee, breast to breast, and hand over back - disengages, placing feet to order and ensures Can copies - and may be thus briefly explained - illustrates during explanation and ensures Can’s correct co-operation – Hand to hand, I greet you as a Brother; foot to foot, I will support you in all your laudable undertakings; knee to knee, the posture of my daily supplications shall remind me of your wants; breast to breast, your lawful secrets when entrusted to me as such I will keep as my own; hand over back, I will support your character in your absence as in your presence.  It is in this position, and this only, and then only in a whisper, except in open Lodge, that the word is given:  it is ……. or .…… - speaks words aloud and ensures Can repeats aloud, then disengages, standing facing Can. WM – You are now at liberty to retire in order to restore yourself to your personal comforts, and on your return to the Lodge the Sns, Tn and Wd, will be further explained – resumes seat by N side. SD – goes to Can and with l h takes Can’s r h and conducts him, squaring the Lodge, to N of SW’s ped.  Here he wheels Can clockwise so as to face E, halts and releases hand. SD – to Can aloud – Salute the WM in the three Degrees – whispers to Can ‘P Sn only in the Third’ and ensures Can gives the salutes in the three degrees in order, with the proper steps. SD – takes Can by r h, makes an anti-clockwise wheel and leads him to the door. IG – goes to door in front of SD and opens it, closing it again after Can has gone out. The lights are now restored. IG – resumes seat. SD and JD – take up s. Outside Lodge Can resumes his ordinary dress with FC badge.  When Can is ready: Tyler – gives MM knocks on the door. IG – rises in front of chair, Sp and MM P Sn – Bro. JW, there is a report – holds Sn. JW – seated, one knock. IG – cuts Sn and recovers, goes to door, opens it and looks out without speaking. Tyler – The Candidate on his return. IG – makes no reply, closes door, returns to position in front of his chair, Sp and MM P Sn – WM, the Can on his return. WM – Admit him. IG – cuts Sn and recovers, awaits arrival of SD, then goes to door. SD – follows IG to door. IG – opens door and admits Can. SD – receives Can and leads him by r h to N of SW’s ped, both facing E. IG – closes door and resumes seat. SD – aloud to Can – Salute the WM in the Three Degrees – whispers ‘full Sns’ and ensures Can takes Sp and gives and cuts EA Sn, takes second Sp, gives and holds FC Sn, takes third Sp and gives Sn of H, Sn of S and P Sn to recovery. SD – takes Can by r h and draws him back to N of SW. SW – rises. SD – places Can’s r h in l h of SW and lines up on l of Can, ensuring they are both facing E. SW – with l h raises Can’s r h, Sp and MM P Sn, which he holds – WM, I present to you Brother ………., on his being raised to the Third Degree, for some further mark of your favour. WM – Bro. SW, I delegate you to invest him with the distinguishing badge of a MM – holds up MM badge as he speaks. DC – rises and goes to S of WM’s ped, takes badge from WM and carries it to N of SW’s ped, squaring the Lodge. SW – meanwhile, cuts Sn and recovers, releases Can’s hand. SD – takes Can’s r h and and moves him a couple of paces N of SW’s ped, turning him to face S. SW – steps down from N side of ped and takes badge from DC. DC – returns to seat. SW – faces Can, removes FC badge and puts on him badge of a MM. SD – assists if necessary. SW – picks up lower r h corner of badge with his l h.  To Can – Bro. …….., by the WM’s command, I invest you with the distinguishing badge of a MM to mark the further progress you have made in the science – releases badge and resumes seat via S side of ped. SD – takes Can’s r h and turns anti-clockwise with him to face E.  releases hand. Chaplain – I must state that the badge with which you have now been invested not only points out your rank as a MM, but is meant to remind you of those great duties you have just solemnly engaged yourself to observe; and whilst it marks your own superiority, it calls on you to afford assistance and instruction to the brethren in the inferior degrees. SD – takes Can’s r h and leads him, squaring the Lodge, to a point in front of WM’s ped and a pace from it, makes an anti-clockwise wheel to face WM, halts and releases hand. Traditional History (In our Lodge, the Traditional History is usually delivered by a PM or other experienced Brother.  The SD will position the Can appropriately) WM – We left off at that part of our traditional history which mentions the death of our Master HA.  A loss so important as that of the principal  architect could not fail of being generally and severely felt.  The want of those plans and designs which had hitherto been regularly supplied to the different classes of workmen was the first indication that some heavy calamity had befallen our Master.  The Menatschin, or Prefects, or more familiarly speaking, the Overseers, deputed some of the more eminent of their number to acquaint K S with the utter confusion into which the absence of H had plunged them, and to express their apprehension that to some fatal catastrophe must be attributed his sudden and mysterious disappearance.  K S immediately ordered a general muster of the workmen throughout the different departments, when three of the same class of overseers were not to be found.  On the same day the 12 Craftsmen who had originally joined in the conspiracy came before the King and made a voluntary confession of all they knew down to the time of withdrawing themselves from the number of the conspirators.  This naturally increased the fears of K S for the safety of his chief artist.  He therefore selected fifteen trusty FCs and ordered them to make a diligent search after the person of our M, to ascertain if he were yet alive or had suffered death in the attempt to extort from him the secrets of his exalted Degree. Accordingly, a stated day having been appointed for their return to Jerusalem, they formed themselves into three FCs’ Lodges and departed from the three entrances of the Temple.  Many days were spent in fruitless search; indeed one class returned without having made any discovery of importance.  A second, however, were more fortunate, for on the evening of a certain day, after having suffered the greatest privations and personal fatigues, one of the brethren, who had rested himself in a reclining posture, to assist his rising caught hold of a shrub that grew near, which to his surprise came easily out of the ground.  On closer examination he found that the earth had been recently disturbed.  He therefore hailed his companions and with their united endeavours reopened the ground and there found the body of our M very indecently interred.  They covered it again with all respect and reverence, and to distinguish the spot stuck a sprig of acacia at the head of the grave. They then hastened to Jerusalem to impart the afflicting intelligence to K S.  He, when the first emotions of his grief had subsided, ordered them to return and raise our M to such a sepulchre as became his exalted rank and talents, at the same time informing them that by his untimely death the secrets of a MM were lost.  He therefore charged them to be particularly careful in observing whatever casual Sn, Tn or Wd might occur whilst paying this last sad tribute of respect to departed merit. They performed their task with the utmost fidelity; and on reopening one of the brethren looking round – rises, no Sp – observed some of his companions in this position – gives Sn of H, ensures Can copies – struck with horror at the dreadful and afflicting sight – drops Sn – while others, viewing the ghastly wound still visible on his forehead, smote their own – gives Sn of S, ensures Can copies – in sympathy with his sufferings – drops Sn and sits – Two of the brethren then descended the grave and endeavoured to raise him by the EA’s G which proved a s.  They then tried the FC’s, which proved a s likewise.  Having both failed in their attempts, a zealous and expert brother took a more firm hold of the sinews of the hand, and with their assistance, raised him on the F P O F, while the others, more animated, exclaimed ….….. or ………, both words having a nearly similar import, one signifying the d of the b, the other the b is sm.  K S therefore ordered that those casual Sns and that Tn and Wd should designate all MMs, throughout the universe until time or circumstances should restore the genuine. It only remains to account for the third class, who had pursued their researches in the direction of Joppa, and were meditating their return to Jerusalem , when accidentally passing the mouth of a cavern they heard sounds of deep lamentation and regret.  On entering the cave to ascertain the cause, they found three men answering the description of those missing, who, on being charged with the murder and finding all chance of escape cut off, made a full confession of their guilt.  They were then bound and led to Jerusalem, when K S sentenced them to that death the heinousness of their crime so amply merited. (WM or PM points to various items on TB as words require) Our M was ordered to be reinterred as near to the Sanctum Sanctorum as the Israelitish law would permit – there in a grave from the centre three feet E and three feet W, three feet between N and S, and five feet or more perpendicular.  He was not buried in the Sanctum Sanctorum, because nothing common or unclean was allowed to enter there, not even the High Priest but once a year, nor then until after many washings and purifications against the great day of expiation for sins, for by the Israelitish law, all flesh was deemed unclean.  The same fifteen trusty FCs were ordered to attend the funeral, clothed in white aprons and gloves as emblems of their innocence. You have already been informed that the working tools with which our M was slain were the PR, L and heavy M.  The ornaments of a MM’s Lodge are the Porch, the Dormer and Square Pavement.  The Porch was the entrance to the Sanctum Sanctorum, the Dormer the window that gave light to the same, and the Square Pavement for the High Priest to walk on.  The High Priest’s office was to burn incense to the honour and glory of the Most High, and to pray fervently that the Almighty, of His unbounded wisdom and goodness, would be pleased to bestow peace and tranquillity on the Israelitish nation during the ensuing year. The c, skull and crossed bones being emblems of mortality, allude to the untimely death of our M, HA.  He was slain three thousand years after the creation of the world. In the course of the ceremony you have been informed of three Sns in this Degree.  The whole of them are f corresponding in number with the F P O F.  They are the Sn of H, the Sn of S, the P Sn, the Sn of G and D and the Sn of J and Exultation, likewise called the G or R Sn.  For the sake of regularity I will go through them and you will copy me – rises with Sp – instructs Can in a whisper to take Sp and copy Sns.  He ensures Can copies all f Sns correctly at appropriate places and that the words are not repeated. WM – illustrates Sns as he repeats appropriate words – This is the Sn of H; this of S; this, the P Sn.  The Sn of G and D is given by passing the right hand across the forehead and dropping it to the left elbow in the form of a square.  This took its rise at the time our M was making his way from the N to the E entrance of the Temple, when his agony was so great that the perspiration stood in large drops on his forehead, and he made use of this Sn – illustrates, Can copies – as a temporary relief to his sufferings.  This is the Sn of J and E – illustrates, Can copies – It took its rise at the time the Temple was completed, and K S with the princes of his household went to view it, when they were so struck with its magnificence that with one simultaneous motion they exclaimed – illustrates, Can copies – ‘Oh Wonderful Masons!’ On the continent of Europe the Sn of G and D is given in a different manner, by clasping the hands and elevating them with their backs towards the front – illustrates, Can copies – exclaiming ‘Come – cuts Sn, Can copies – to my assistance you children of the widow’ on the supposition that all MMs are brothers to HA, who was a widow’s son.  In Scotland, Ireland and the States of America the Sn of G and D is given in a still different manner, by throwing up the hands with the palms extended towards the heavens and dropping them with three distinct motions to the sides – illustrates, Can copies – exclaiming, ‘Oh Lord my God, Oh Lord my God, Oh Lord my God, is there no help for the widow’s son?’ WM – sits. SD – ensures Can is in position to view w ts. WM – I now present to you the w ts of a MM.  They are the Sk, P and Cs – indicates w ts as he names them – The Sk is an implement which acts on a centre pin, whence a line is drawn to mark out ground for the foundation of the intended structure.  With the P the skilful artist delineates the building in a draft or plan for the instruction and guidance of the workmen.  The Cs enable him with accuracy and precision to ascertain and determine the limits and proportions of its several parts.  But as we are not all operative Masons, but rather free and accepted, or speculative, we apply these ts to our morals.  In this sense, the Sk points out that straight and undeviating line of conduct laid down for our pursuit in the VSL; the P teaches us that our words and actions are observed and recorded by the Almighty Architect, to Whom we must give an account of our conduct through life; the Cs remind us of his unerring and impartial justice, Who, having defined for our instruction the limits of good and evil, will reward or punish as we have obeyed or disregarded His Divine commands.  Thus the w ts of a MM teach us to bear in mind, and act according to, the laws of our Divine Creator, that, when we shall be summoned from this sublunary abode, we may ascend to the Grand Lodge above, where the worlds Great Architect lives and reigns forever. SD – conducts Can to a seat in the Lodge and returns to his seat.